Is there a safe way to press new bearings into new front rotors without a press. I don't really trust myself to get them in straight using a drift/punch and a hammer but I don't own a press. Does anyone have any neat "backyard mechanic" tricks? Thanks in advance!
2006-12-11 15:29:20 · 9 answers · asked by kittstr_sounds 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
Use the punch. It is what we professionals use. If you drive them in until they seat (there is a boss cut in the hub) then they will be straight.
ONE CAUTION -- Use safety glasses. you don't want a chip if the punch or the cup in your eye.
Good Luck and Merry Christmas
2006-12-11 15:33:08 · answer #1 · answered by Ironhand 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you don't trust yourself, then you shouldn't be doing it. I have never used a press to install wheel bearings into a hub. I place the bearing cup (outer shell, unless it is a complete bearing assembly) on the edge of the hub and tap it in with a hammer. Just make sure you are using a dead-blow hammer or a plastic mallet, or place a piece of wood between the bearing and the hammer. Make certain that it is going in straight. Once you have it flush with the outside edge of the hub, take the old bearing and put it on top of the new one and use it as a drift to push the new one in. You will need to hammer out the old one once the new one has bottomed out. So, make sure you have the thick end of the old one on the thin end of the new one as you will need an edge to set your punch on.
When in doubt, take it to a professional.
2006-12-11 15:41:57 · answer #2 · answered by GORDO BLAKHART 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The bolts that hold the assemblies in have Loc-Tite on them from the factory. If the bearing is rusted in place and the bolts are already out, just tap it with a hammer and it will come out. If the bolts are not out, it might be easier if you turn the wheel all the way out and use a 1/2 inch drive breaker bar on the bolts. If you are having trouble with the 36mm axle nut, you will defintely need a long breaker bar to get that one loose. I don't think any lubricant will help with the bolts, since the threads are all hidden anyway. Try to use a 6 point socket on the bolts so you don't round the heads off.
2016-05-23 07:39:56 · answer #3 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Please understand the the bearing " races" the thing the bearings actually ride on have a " shoulder" IN the rotor and all you have to do is make sure the race in flush with the shoulder....assuming this car is a rear wheel drive car.
2006-12-11 15:47:23 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
if you can get a hold of a 32mm or 36mm large socket, those work nicely. basically if you get one that just as or slightly larger than the bearing, it will hit the entire bearing at the same time, instead of going around the edge with a punch.
2006-12-11 15:39:24 · answer #5 · answered by john m 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i own a repair shop,and you can use the punch on it,its tougher than you think it is,that's what i use on them it should be alright though,i have never used a press on those type you,ll do OK with it,,just take your time,,if you get in a hurry that's when you,ll mess up,,good luck with it,i hope this help,s..,,have a good x-mas.
2006-12-11 15:38:49 · answer #6 · answered by dodge man 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
get a long bolt with some heavy washers and a nut, stack your spindle, bearing and hub then put the bolt throught the axle hole and screw it together. if you dont use a 1/2 inch thick bolt and some thick washers it wont work. they wont be strong enough.
2006-12-11 15:34:17 · answer #7 · answered by quickcuda69 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It really wouldn't cost that much to go to a machine shop and have them pressed in.
2006-12-11 20:26:40 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
OK.
Neat trick of the day.
Put the bearings in your freezer.
When the metal gets cold, it contracts. (get's smaller)
You should be able to tap them in MUCH easier then.
Do it kind of quick though, as soon as they start to warm up, they will grow back to normal size.
2006-12-11 15:47:13 · answer #9 · answered by Mr. KnowItAll 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋